Fijian Islands lashed by Tropical Cyclone Gene by Steph Ball
The Fijian Islands are feeling the full force of Tropical Cyclone Gene this morning. Gene made landfall on Fiji’s north island of Vanua Levu overnight, and is currently bearing down on its south island, Vitu Levu.
The Nadi weather office has issued gale warnings for many areas including Viti Levu and the western half of Vanua Levu. The storm is forecast to bring damaging winds of over 40mph (65-75 km/h), with gusts over 80mph (140 km/h). Floods are also expected to affect areas with heavy rain forecast, as well as a sea surge and swell.
Gene has already caused damage and claimed two lives this morning, flattening houses, bringing down trees and power lines and leaving many without power. The country is bracing itself for more wild weather over the next 24hrs as the storm moves across Vitu Levu. Flooding of Vitu Levu’s major rivers is now said to be highly likely with the storm surge coinciding with the high tide this evening.
The National Disaster Management Center (NDMC) is advising people in all divisions to ensure their homes and property are secured. Evacuation shelters have been set up with residents in low lying or coastal areas advised to move to high ground.
Cyclone Gene is expected to move south of Vitu Levu overnight into Tuesday and could strengthen again as it moves back over warm waters.
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